I have really enjoyed looking at your photos, and just wanted to say that I think it’s awesome that you are writing in a second language. Living in Europe for the past eight months has really helped me appreciate the value of multilingualism. My goal is to become proficient at French and Spanish, but I don’t think I’ll ever be able to blog in any language but English!

Hi 1life196countries, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

I just noticed your blog, and really enjoy reading it. I shared some of the ideas you have. First English is not my native language (Chinese is :-)), second writing is not my major (data analysis is :-)). It took a lot of courage for me to set up my blog a year ago, that is one of the reasons that I named my blog as “from hiding to blogging”.

I am looking forward to sharing the experience in blogging with you in the future. Please take a moment to visit mine here: http://cxianliu.wordpress.com/.

Hi! Thank you for stopping by my blog! English is not my native language as well, but I think these challenges make it more interesting for us. I am enjoying reading your travels! Have you made it to Estonia when you visited Lithuania? (I am from Estonia… 🙂 ) Good luck!

Hi! I think writing the blog in English is a good way of keep using this language after I retire. We spent a few days in Estonia (our first visit) and find it delightful; computers are very widely used and people are friendly, but unfortunately, it has been raining heavily and I didn’t have much chance to take good photos. I have enjoyed reading your blog and I didn’t realize that English isn’t your native language.

Hi Michael! Thank you for your comment. Yes, Estonia is delightful isn’t it? I’m sorry that the weather did not cooperate, but it is pretty common. We even have a joke about it: “The summer is over, why are you not tanned? Oh, I was sick that day.” 🙂

Had been sightseeing in Tallinn and visited the Parnu Beach. The beach was very windy that day but I enjoyed the atmosphere. My impression was that Estonia is more modern than the other Baltic countries. I also like the architecture. One building I saw was cladded in rust free steel (actually it was a bit rusted but would not further deteriorate) which I had never come across before. It was a wonderful trip!

It was the loss of professional identity after decades of dedicated work that was somewhat not that easy to get over. Yes, blogging, teaching, assisting to prepare a book, hiking, travelling, photography etc have actually helped me to transition from work into retirement. I am glad to have retired!

Michael, you and Yulia amaze me. You write so well in English, yet both of you no doubt have to work at it. I studied Spanish in high school, and in recent years have taken a few courses in conversational Spanish. I have so many words in my head, yet putting them together in a coherent sentence is a challenge. We have lots of Spanish-speakers in our area, and I ask them to speak to me in Spanish so, “puedo practicar la lengua.” That helps, particularly if they correct me along the way and correct my mistakes. You are quite a traveler, Michael. Budapest is a place I’d like to see, but know little of Estonia and Lithuania. We had a priest here return to his native Estonia when the USSR dissolved to become either a bishop or archbishop there. I’m sure it was a life’s dream for him to be able to return. Thanks for liking my posts. With a trip to Spain tentatively planned for September I may have an opportunity to practice my Spanish more, though they do speak it differently there than our Central and South Americans do.

Hi, I think I will never be able to write posts using Spanish. I have studied it for over a year now -there seems to be so many things requiring good memory – the conjugations and the tenses etc. I hope I can have more chances practicing with others. I understand that there are differences in the Spanish between C and S Americans – like ustedes and tu etc. Hope you will have a great trip to Spain!

Hi!
Thanks for liking my blog. I can assure you that your English is much much better than my Cantonese, which is rather cobbled together because I had to learn how to speak it for a job in Scotland.
Great photos!

I was posted to work in London in 1985 and did some travelling around UK but never had the chance to visit Lake Windermere. Your photos of Lake Windermere are just great! I would be pleased to practise Cantonese or Mandarin with you if I am in the area.

Thanks for your kind comments. I know my English is only functional and because of professional needs, it tends to be precise rather than appealing. I am relearning how to write and keep on polishing my English. HK is constantly changing, hope you will like it when you return.

Lovely blog and pictures. You are living the life I crave for- maybe a few years in the future! I am 3 years in my profession, works hard, but spend any free time travelling. I hope to earn enough to not have to worry financially in future, and to retire in a secluded place in the world where no one knows me!

Thanks for stopping by my blog. Like you, I have been working very hard when I was young and spent time travelling and learning. Travelling has helped me to view the world and myself in a different light. It is important to save up and invest wisely so as to gain one’s financial freedom as soon as practicable.

Yes! I am enjoying every moment of it. I started up the blog wanting to talk about this important transition, the psychological journey, what it does to longevity etc. I have digressed somewhat into travels and photos. Would like to write more about this subject later. Anyway, many thanks for stopping by my blog!

Your English and writing seem really good, especially since English is not your first language! Good luck with all your retirement endeavors – it’s an exciting time for a new chapter in your life! Thanks for checking out my blog!

Thanks for liking my blog! I am hoping to polish my English through writing and would be grateful if anybody can point out how I may improve. This is indeed an exciting time and I really enjoy the complete freedom I now have.

You use your camera very skillfully. The photographs are beautiful, and have the effect of making us want to visit the places you have been! I’ll be back to look around and read about some more of your adventures.

I am flattered by your comments on my photographic skills as I am still a learner. My wife’s usual comment on my scenic photos is that they are boring. In any case, I am very happy to share my travel photos with all those visiting my blog. Many thanks for your comment!

I love travelling around; be it in Japan, Malaysia, China, Europe, infact, anywhere. From the responses I am getting, like me, many of the readers also like Langkawi. Thanks for following my blog and have a good weekend!

The field you are in is really interesting. I would also like to pursue it if I am still young; would be nice to know how to reduce morbidity and increase longevity. Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking the posts!

Hi Michael. Thanks so much for stopping by my blog and I’m glad you enjoyed it. I look forward to catching up with some of your posts here too. I am pretty new to blogging too so every new post is a learning curve. Best wishes, Phil Max

Hi Phil. I love your bear. I am also new to blogging and as you say, am still on the learning curve. Sometimes, I don’t know what to write or how to present . Maybe, that’s part of the challenge.
Thanks for stopping by my blog! Reagards, Michael

Thank you so much for liking my blog post! And very best wishes from Jamaica! By the way, your English is excellent. And by the way, I am retired too! I am now one of your followers! Best regards,
Emma

Apologize for the belated response. For unknown reason, your comment was classifed as Spam. I enjoying reading your posts and it is nice to know you are from another part of the world which I don’t know much about. I trust you are also enjoying your retirement. Thanks for following my blog. Regards, Michael

Hi Michael, thank you for stopping by my blog and liking my post. I adore as well your post and also your English..pretty well done I think, and in the option of being still flourish in retirement..amazing and it’s great! Hope you’ll get wonderful time on your next vacations, and can’t wait for your holiday stories in my country Indonesia (so many places to choose)..hope so..:D..

Hi, Have been to Borobudur and Mount Bromo many years back, but still have fond memories of those places. I look forward to visiting your country and maybe Lake Taboa as well. Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking it! Michael

I retired early last July and have been feeling my way. you liked my blog on trekking in Nepal – this was my first adventure in retirement. I have been to many of the places you have talked about – the west coast of Japan, Hong Kong, many places in China and Taiwan, as well as the standard western Europe countries. I believe that travel should be more than just checking off another country on the list; in each place I hope to find some new piece of beauty, truth, humanity – or why go?

It will be interesting to compare our experiences of “retirement” – which is a misnomer, I think, as i hope to be more engaged with the world and its inhabitants, not less.

I believe that it is important to give something back to the society and for this reason I am doing part time teaching at a local university. I also believe that we should contribute as much as possible to our profession. My contribution to a book under preparation is perhaps one of the things I can do using my previous experience / residual value. Travelling to me is opening myself up to new ideas, situations, environment and understanding of the world and its inhabitants so as to see what and where we can be of some assistance. Regards, Michael

Hi Michael! Great blog you have here! I love your whole adventure, I wish I get to travel to the same places you have as well in the future (like Egypt!). There’s just so much to discover out there and it’s great that you’re taking time to discover them all 😀 I look forward to reading more of your blog 🙂

Hi, I suppose that there are more places than we can travel in our life time. I hope you will be able to travel to all those places you love, including Egypt and other unforgettable places. Thanks for visiting my blog and liking the posts!

Hi Yulia, I feel very honoured to be nominated for the award. However, in my retirement, I have decided not to pursue or receive awards of any nature. Writing and sharing with others from all over the world already give me the highest pleasure I have ever found in my life. Your encouragement and inspiring comments will never be forgotten. I found many bloggers write long articles which I am unable to do as my skills in English is rather limited. I have also not followed those bloggers who have put in a lot of photos as usually I can only find a handful of pictures which look reasonably good.

With regret, I have to decline the nomination , hoping that you will understand. Regards and take care! Michael

Hi, My writing has been lousy since high school days. Maye, this is just a happy punishment. . . . . . in any case, I have been keeping my posts short.
Thanks very much for following my blog which is appreciated. Regards, Michael

I can very much relate with the writing part as English is not my mother tongue. That’s one of the reason too why I created a blog to hone my writing skills while sharing my travel adventures. I dream of becoming a writer and hopefully I could write a book someday :-).

You’ve got a beautiful blog + photos! Wishing you always good health so you can travel more :-).

Thank you for discovering and liking my latest post, because it has allowed me to discover your blog as well. I applaud your attitude to “retirement” and I put the word in quotes, because you have not retired from the world, you have simply changed focus and means of engagement. Like you, I no longer work at a defined paid employment, but I am fully engaged in the world — perhaps more than ever, certainly more broadly than before. We are in what I call the Golden Overlap: we now have the time to explore new opportunities, and we still have the physical and mental ability to do so. Lucky, lucky us.

Hi Penny, well said, we are now in the Golden Overlap. Not too many readers have viewed my postigs on retirement, many of them liked the travels section. I am glad that we share the same attitude. I hope we are only at the beginning of the Overlap and that we have many andd varied opportunities in front of us. Thanks for stopping by my blog and offering insightful comments! Regards, Michael

Hi Andre, Thanks for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or receive any nomination during my retirement. As such, I have already turned down three similar nominations. Knowing that my posts are read throughout many parts of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. I thank you for visiting my blog and the kind and supportive comments. Regards, Michael

Hi Lissa, I am struggling with it; in any case, I treat this as a challenge. I am learning from other bloggers how they write and how they have skilfully taken their photos. Thanks for the kind comments! Regards, Michael

Hi, many thanks for that. I love your description about my blog. As I have promised myself not to pursue or receive any award during my retirement, I will not be participating. Thanks again for your kind comments and the support! Regards, Michael

The idea of livng in a place and learning the language appeal to me too. I am also thinking of learning Spanish which is so widely used in the Central and South Americas. Good luck with your learning and your work! Michael

Mike, you seem to write quite well, after all you retire after the running the world 🙂 for ages I guess. OK seriously – your writing is short, simple and clear. The kind of writing I like – brevity. I haven’t had much chance to read your other posts but this is the feeling I get from your About page.

Hi Benjamin, I think I can only write functional English and things that make sense to me; not necessarily those things appealing to others. So, I have always tried to write in simple English. Thanks very much for stopping by my blog and share your kind comments! Regards, Michael

Hi Michael, just wanted to say thanks for liking my post about traveling in Africa. It is inspirational to see someone so ready to see the world and be open to all its beauty and mystery. Good for you and keep on inspiring all of us!

I have a the same challenge, writing this blog in English, which not my native language. I opted for that, because it gives me global reach and I use English in business every day anyway. Your posts are really good and your layout fantastic.

Greetings from Munich to Hongkong. I had a short consulting project HK Electric 1999-2000 and I remember the city well. I am also a big fan of Wong Kar-wai.
Good luck and happy writing.

For the same reason I am writing my posts in English; it is nice to know that one has readers from all over the world. In fact, I do not have many readers when I wrote about Hong Kong. I am happy that you also read my post on HK. HK still remains my favourite place where I call home. I understand Munich is a very attractive place in Germany to live in. Greetings from HK as well! Many thanks for your inspiring and kind comments! Michael

Hi, Michael. You’ve been too modest with your introduction. You are a great writer and photographer.
BTW, my husband is now visiting HK for the first time. Anything place of interest that he ‘must’ visit?

Hi Sutira, I would suggest going up the Victoria Peak (or sometimes called the Peak), a ride across the harbor in the Star Ferry and if he has the time, he may like to go to visit the Big Bhudda at Lantau Island by taking the Ngong Ping cable car at Tung Chung near the airport. Regards, Michael

Despite the fact that English is not your first language, you write beautifully! I love the name of this blog (very clever) and I can’t wait to read everything and travel vicariously through you. I’m glad you’re enjoying retirement so far!

Thanks for stopping by my blog, Michael. Your pics of Hong Kong are lovely! I now know other places to go to when I next plan a visit to Hong Kong 🙂 Wishing you many happy hours of blogging and photography!

Hi, in my days, students who are good in mathematics and bad at English / language would go for an engineering career. I was one of those. After blogging for several months now, I find that quite a few of the bloggers are engineers or IT professionals. Maybe, the lack of opportunities of writing to express ourselves (and not our projects) is the main driver for writing. Thanks for your encouraging comment! Regards, Michael

for me, blogging is a way to capture my memories..the good ones.. and putting them in one place where I can see it for years to come and share it as well. some of my posts are from 15 yrs ago too. Whatever I can recollect, I quickly type them out. I travel a lot too..my experiences from my travel make their way in my posts. while at it, I learn from all blogs that I can read. Read many of your posts by now !

Hi, only after retirement do I have the opportunity to write. Many of my posts are quite contemporary; I have lost almost all my old non-digital images. Yes, you must have read quite a few of my posts; very few people would go back to my post no.1 on “Retire Tomorrow”. Thanks for perusing my posts, knowing that I have readers like yourself is a already a great encouragement to continue blogging. Have a good weekend, Michael

Greetings, Michael! Thanks for liking my post. It is nice to know you are from Hong Kong as well!! Your writings and photos are beautiful, and I am sure you have enjoyed the new and exciting world of blogging. I look forward to reading through your travels, and also exchanging great encounters in Hong Kong. Best wishes, SC

Hi SC, I’m still learning how to present my photos and text in my posting. Blogging is indeed interested; I hope I’ll not become addicted to it. Will look forward to exchanging our encounters in HK. Regards, Michael

Michael, it’s great that you have started this blog — great concept to have a retiree journal (although it sounds like you’re quite busy!) I love your photos and looking at them give me the travel bug! Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking my post on kangaroo road kill.

One thing I’m not accustomed to when writing in English is that I can’t use Chinese proverbs and idioms or do it in a colloquial manner. As you said, this is a challenge. I like your blog, please keep blogging! Michael

Hi Janet, I am still in my early stage of retirement – the Go-Go stage. I am happy with my present life and hope that I can continue with this for some years. Thanks for stopping by my blog! Regards, Michael

Thanks Michael for visiting my blog and liking my post. I like your travel stories and photos. It is also my dream to travel to different countries someday. And I wish I could also blog in English. You are an inspiration to other retirees. Keep on blogging.

Greetings! Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking one of my posts. I’ve enjoyed viewing some of your photos — superb! I’ll be checking out more of them. Looks like you are enjoying a lot of travel in your retirement. 🙂

Hi Michael, you have a lot of amazing pictures in here and now I think I want to retired soon 😀
PS. Your English are just fine, more… it was a great one ‘holding dictionary just to type this comment’ 🙂

Hi Ansella, you won’t be surprised if you occasionally find some grammatical errors in my writings or if the English is structured in a rather strange manner. Many thanks for stopping by my blog. Regards, Michael

Thank you for visiting my blog. In return, yours looks much more interesting than mine! I love to travel, and I would love to do what you’re doing someday. Keep posting, please. Your photos are awesome!

I only looked at the most recent 2 posts from you and from what I’ve seen so far, it looks like great travel blog already! I will read some more tomorrow, keep it up and enjoy your retirement! You’ve been to places that people can only dream of.

Thanks for the like at “Memories on the Journey” – we spend many days looking for God’s lessons in our new life here in Hong Kong, hopefully some of them bless & encourage others along the way! Next time you visit, please let us know your thoughts! – Blessings, jk.

Thanks so much! *oops* I just realized the comments were disabled on that page. fixed it now. 🙂 Guess we all have much to learn about the blogging world! Glad you decided to write too, I think your English is very good – compared with many we work with here!

Hi Managua, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down several similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated. Regards, Michael

Thanks for stopping by and visiting CTB 😀 Good for you and your English is very good! Much better than my Chinese will ever be. After 2 years in China I can only say a few words, never would I be able to blog in Chinese!

Hi LyannV, thanks very much indeed for the nomination. I have told myself not to puruse / receive any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason I have turned down several similar nominations. Knowing that my posts is read in many countries is already my biggest reward. So with regret, I have to decline also this one. Many thanks once again and regards, Michael

Hi LyannV, many thanks for the kind comment. It is reader like you that keeps me go on blogging (until I run out of photos and things to say). I also love reading your blog! Have a great weekend, Michael

I envy you Michael. I dream of travelling different country as well but my main priority now is to explore different places in my country. I hope you’ll have a chance to travel here in the Philippines and I’ll assure to you that you’ll find many beautiful places here. By the way, we Filipinos are known as very accommodating people so you’ll enjoy staying here.

Hello. Please forgive my tardiness, but I took two short trips and have lost track of keeping up with my blog stuff. I stopped by to (finally!) thank you for liking one of my recent posts. I always get a kick out of it, and I appreciate it. So—thank you. 🙂

Thanks for reading my post! You got beautiful pictures. Sorry about your bad experience in Hungary! (There is a reason why I don’t live there any more…) It’s great that you have undertaken blogging in a second language in your retirement.

Hi Monica, understand that there are too many people who have left their homeland and and crowded into Budapest. I suppose this is the universal trend of urbanization and Budapest just don’t have sufficient number of jobs for its residents. I don’t blame them. Thanks for the kind comments. Regards, Michael

Hi, Lai ia not an uncommon surname in the southern part of China and perhaps also in Vietnam and other SE Asia Chinese communities. I am seeing more blogs in languages other than English. Thanks for your kind comment!Regards, Michael

What a great blog! Love the name!!! Your blog makes me want to run and buy a ticket somewhere and start my own adventure! Best of luck to you in completing your book. I’ll be living vicariously through you as I look at your photos and keep tabs on your latest trips. Best Regards!

Hi, many thanks for your encouraging comments! I wish I can have you skills in macro photography; your photos are just amazing / awesome. I am also living vicariously through you to look at the world in a more detail manner. Regards, Michael

Loving your blog – thank you for sharing, sure glad you gave my blog a like so I could discover your blog. My husband are starting to plan a year long Europe trip and I am just in heaven reading about your journey!

Hi, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down several similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated. Regards, Michael

Hi Bernice, we were tossing between going to Spain or Croatia this year and in the end we went to Croatia. This is partly due to the fact that my aged father in law couldn’t stand having late meals in Spain and that some of us have been there before. I very much enjoy Seville, Cordoba and Granada and will surely like to re-visit these places and Barcelona. Will drop you a line when the time comes. Thanks for the encouraging coment! Regards, Michael

Thank you for visiting my blog. It gave me an opportunity to discover yours in return. Your photos are lovely and I’m impressed with your ability to write on English when it is not your first languguage. Bravo!

Hello Michael, thanks for visiting us at Around the World in Eighty Wickets. I’m inspired by your energy and your courage to blog in a foreign language. Thanks for the wonderful photos, too. Best, Merryn

Hi Merryn, my source of energy comes from a redirection of it from my previous work. As for the courage of writing in another language, it comes from ignoring how difficult it might be and knowing that my readers will forgive me for my funny English. Thanks for the kind comment! Regards, Michael

Hi Bmpiller, welcome to the world of the retired. I’m sure you will enjoy your retirement. My writings are unedited, so forgive me if you spot any grammatical mistakes. Many thanks for your encouraging comment. Regards, Michael

Dear Michael, Thank you so much for “liking” my blog at http://www.artteachtravel.com . I was so encouraged today to see that you’d read quite a few of my blog posts. I am fully impressed with not only your blog, but your learning the English language so well. Also your photographs are wonderful! I see that you are based in Hong Kong and that is a city I’m considering moving to. I will enjoy looking through all your photos. The very best of luck to you and enjoy your retirement! I can’t wait for that day to come for me! 🙂

Hi,
This is just to let you know that I have nominated you for the beautiful blogger award. If you chose to participate, (I understand completely if you do not wish to), please pick the award and rules from here: http://wp.me/2ys6I
Luv ,
Cynthia.

Hi Cynthia, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

A fellow traveler! If you journey to the Southern of the two Koreas in the future, I hope we could meet up. But I’m sure there are many other places you plan to visit. Looking forward to reading more of exploits!

Just looked at your January images, Michael; as w/ the rest, simply amazing. (Figured I’d grab a month at a time in order to not have a sensory overload.) Love the title “retireediary” as well; great choice – if this is what you are producing as a retiree, then you should have retired a long time ago!

Wow! I have another look at your blog, your photos are just amazing. I envy your skills on Photoshop, Lightroom etc which I know nothing about. I was born in an age when we still use punched cards and later magnetic tapes for running computer programs. If I were in the States, I would also like to take up some proper photography training. All the best with your future blogging! Michael

Hi Michael. Thanks for visiting my blog. Great to read yours – loved the photos on your last post in particular. I wouldn’t have guessed about non-native English as it read really well. Hope you keep enjoying the writing! Annabel

Hi, thanks for paying a visit to my blog today. Lately I’ve been considering early retirement but my problem is I what to do with all that time, I must have something to do at least a couple of days a week; otherwise, I am afraid I’d be climbing the walls. LOL

Hi Marcia, I know the concern and I pondered about it before retirement. I have a draft (more like a checklist) of what people do in their retirement. I Hope I can put it to shape and publish it soon. Best wishes, Michael

Hello, this is so late but thanks a lot for liking my post. I can’t reveal my real name yet as I am not retired yet.. If I reveal my name, it won’t be good for my job. Your photos of China are fascinating to me!

Hello Michael
I am glad you found my blog. Hong Kong was the place we almost moved to (as described on my About page) and although this move is not happening just yet, we enjoyed a fabulous visit there in October, and have not ruled it out for the future, if the opportunity arises. You write well! I look forward to reading more. Good wishes, ItchyFootMum (UK)

Hi Laurie, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Thanks for your comments Michael. English is my first language but according to Mrs Spouse that is debatable after the third glass of red wine. Or….was it the fourth?????? How I admire anyone who has 2 (or more) languages at their finger (tongue) tips. Love Hong Kong but compared to New Zealand it is just a little busier. Thanks again for looking at my Blog.

Your blog is absolutely beautiful, from the thoughts, to the photos and to the written word. i admire your willingness to continue to challenge yourself. And I find myself wondering, “HOW does he take such gorgeous photos?” I look forward to following your blog!

Hi Mindfulmagpie, thanks very much for your encouraging comment! In my previous life before retirement, I have always tried to challenge myself. Now, this blog is my major challenge as this is the first time I actually write and show my photos to others. Thanks also for following my blog! Regards, Michael

Hello Michael, I’ve lived in several cities in China, even in Hong Kong and visited Yunnan (Dali, Lijiang, Xizhou, Kunming) 3 times while I was working but now I am retired and loving my tranquil life in Yunnan. I too have taken up writing. Just finished writing a Chinese Cookbook and waiting for the final parts to complete and then it will be epublished. Amazing what you have time for when you don’t have to work!!!!
-Regards, Roz

Hi Thisfloridalife, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hello, your blog has got fantastic pics and to think they are all taken by you is humbling. Thank you for liking my blog too and the article on tourism in Uganda. You should get sometime and visit Uganda. We are a beautiful country! You can also get me on twitter @masakeonline or @ugandatourstrav for any questions on Uganda. Kind regards!, Masake

I am very inspired by reading your story. It sounds like you have lots of fun and adventure ahead of you! Good luck with writing it all down. And good for you for doing it in English, which is not your first language!

I want to thank you as well for your “likes” of my blog post on The Dairy Free Traveler, and ask you for a favor. Recently, I left WordPress.com and am now self-hosting my blog on BlueHost. It is better for the most part, but one thing I have lost is the ability for people to “like” my posts. So now I can see people are reading but I don’t know who! Could you please leave me some comments now and then to let me know you are still reading? Even a short sentence would be a big help.

Michael, Thanks so much for taking the time to visit my blog and “like” my pages. I just subscribed to your blog because I love your photos and adventures…I hope you will do likewise. I’m a novice to blogging but not to the love of travel! How much fun to “meet” other wanderlusts across the continents!
Victoria

Hi, I have much respect for cabbie drivers in London who know the back streets so well that they can always avoid the congested roads. I also love their manners and the design of the London taxis – ability to turn tight circles and spacious seat arrangement. Some of the models(T4?) are now being made in China under licence and some people have tried to import them into HK for use of disabled persons. It is my pleasure of meeting you! Michael

Thank you, Michael, for liking my blog post. I agree with Claudia : VERY impressive travel list. And I admire your skill, writing in another language than your own. English is not my mother tongue either but at least we use the same alphabet. Don’t skip Belgium on one of your travels : we have a great “cuisine”. 🙂

Hi msherice, in my retirement, I am relearning my photography, my English and writing skills. I thank you very much for your encouraging comments and would do my best to overcome the perceived obstacles. Best wishes, Michael

Hello Michael,
thanks for stopping by! Beautiful photos! I have been to HongKong in 1997, just before it went back to China and landed at the old airport. Remember flying through the city at night. Wow!
I enjoy your blog and think your English is amazing! Hats off to you for doing a blog that is not in your mother tongue! 🙂 I have hit the “follow” button.
Best wishes from sunny Vienna 🙂

Hi happyface313, landing at the old airport after making a tight turn in the air is not for the faint hearted! The night views here is always amazing, hope you enjoyed that. Thanks for following and for your encouraging comments! Michael

Dear Michael, it is so long ago, but it was really amazing. Haven’t been to HK since, but maybe next spring. So I trust I will read and see a lot of your diary until then 🙂 Encouragement is very important and underestimated. All the best! 🙂

Hi AnilCm, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination and your following which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Dear Michael,
No matter for non-acceptance of the nomination. Truly speaking, I too not much interested for such awards. I have already declined one recently and this the second one, which I accepted. So don’t get disturbed by declining the nomination. Its absolutely fine.
Have a nice time.
Regards,

Hi Michael…first of all…it is amazing that you are writing this in a language which is not your mother tongue. I could never do something as challenging. A special thanks for liking my post on my India Journal Blog and also for bringing me here to explore yours. It is wonderful. You might also like another one of my several blogs which has lots of inspirational posts about life’s journey but also many photos. Continue to enjoy every moment of your retirement. I have been enjoying mine for several years now and it is a true blessing. Hope you continue to enjoy my adventures in India as well.
with love light and JOY

Hi Jane, I have retired for a year now, I know I am getting more satisfaction out of it than from my previous work and am enjoying every moment of it. Your other blog on life’s journey is really inspirational; will visit it again. Thanks for your kind comment! Michael

It does look like you’re having a great, rich life being a retiree. Congratulations! Thank you so much for visiting my blog; I’m glad you liked the one about sustainable lifestyle in Germany. Best regards.

Hi Rebecca, I like the sustainability topic you posted which is quite unique and interesting. I am trying to make more sense out of my life than in my previous work life. Thanks for the kind comment! Michael

Hi Gabriel, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi Baywife270, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi Hayleens, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Michael:
Thanks for stopping by my blog. I applaud your plan to start a blog and making your golden years more fruitful and satisfying. Please do not stop. I am talking from experience that it is most gratifying to hear from people who you have never met telling that they liked something you created. Keep it up.

Hi ashokshenolikar, quite true, if I got as many “likes” from my previous company as from my readers now, most probably I would have never retired!
Well said, these are my golden years when I rediscover that I could write something and show a few pictures which people like and I also enjoy. Regards and all the best! Michael

Hi Corinne, nice to meet you too! I have retired for one year now and find retirement interesting and more rewarding. In the initial stage of my retirement, I did find it somewhat difficult to adjust to my new life psychologically, this is described in my post on the Psychological Journey of Retirement in the blog. Will be happy to compare notes. Regards, Michael

Hi Steve, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

I totally relate to being self – taught and having had (still having) many challenges in putting up blogs and websites, as well as to having travelled extensively and loving Gaia, our beautiful mother earth!

English is also my second language as (I lived most of my life in Australia, although I was born in Venice – Italy and am back here in Umbria now, between Rome and Florence which are only about an hour and a half by train).

I am passionate about life and with a lot to share myself, which I now try to do via photgraphy, writing and the B & B set-up I have helped with here in Italy where I hope like minded individuals will soon come, to visit a wonderful slice of Paradise where there is so much to learn and photograph!!!
As a matter of fact, my first friend to visit me here was Noriko M. from Osaka (where I was at her home,for a month many years ago) and she absolutely loved the places, nature and culture of the areas we went to.

Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for liking my post and who knows, if you come to Italy one day it’d be great to meet you in person. I love your photos on the coloured flowery fields and wish you the best. My other website is indicated below although it was through http://marinacpublications.wordpress.com that I found out that you liked what I had set up, thank you!!! It does motivate one to continue sharing!!!

Hi Marina, whereabout in Italy are you based? I have not visited Italy before and would like to visit it one day. You obviously have a lot of talents and hope that you would achieve what you have set out to day one day! Thanks & regards, Michael

Thank you for stopping by my blog and liking my post. All the best to you in retirement. I look forward to the day when I can do the same. By the way, English is not the easiest language to learn, but you’ve done wonderfully!

Hello Michael
Thank you for “liking” many of my posts. I too started really started blogging earnestly in January because my son suggested I do it. I, too, have found the experience of meeting people from around the world a very rewarding experience. The internet has shown us how many good people are in this world – how much we can share with each other. Thank you for sharing your photos and thoughts. Carla

Hi Oli, thanks very much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hello and welcome to the retirement club. I joined about 7 yrs ago. It is nice to be able to engage in some of the activities that you always dreamed about. Thank you for visiting and liking my post Nearing the End.

Hi travelgardeneat, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi Michael. Thanks for visiting thefirstgates to like a post. You have a wonderful blog, and I would not have known that English is a second language or that you had little previous writing experience. Nice job!

Hi icelandpenny, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

How are you? I am so glad to see you are a regular visitor to soulsnet. I hope you are enjoying reading it as much as I am writing it. It is wonderful to discover such an absorbing and creative activity in the world after work!!

I am preparing a post on “Silver Surfers” and the challenges that retirement and new technology presents for some of the more mature amongst us, and of course I thought of you!!

I have looked through your incredible array of photographs and I can’t begin to choose. There are so many but would it be alright if I share some from time to time. I will always let you know when and which and of course always link back and credit you.

I have become an enthusiastic amateur photographer and will always be grateful to blogging for introducing me to another way of seeing the world, but for something really lovely to look at I will always want to share a photograph from an accomplished photographer, and you are one of my favourites.

You are obviously having a wonderful retirement and have found a lovely way to share it with others. I always look forward to new posts from you and I am sure all of your followers do too.

Hi Corinne, I am alright with what you suggested in your third paragrapph, provided it is not for commercial use. I am a retiree still looking for a meaningful way of life and wouldn’t mind at all sharing what I like / love with the world of bloggers and friends. I feel flattered with what you said about “accomlished phtotgrapher”. I am still an amateur, hoping to shoot pictures so that beautiful views can be shared. Thanks for liking and following my posts as well as your inspiring comments and your posts in Soulsnet which I am happy to followed. I am also prepared to be guided. Thanks & best regards, Michael

Thanks for that. It won’t be for commercial use, just for sharing with friends and the blogosphere.

All of my posts come out of something that I have either struggled with or found interesting and “Silver Surfing” is a poem that I wrote ages ago when I was deciding whether or not to try to keep up with the modern world or let it go on without me.

I want to try to work it up into a post because I think alot of my friends seem to be facing the same dilemma. Actually starting a blog for me was not only about sharing thoughts and ideas it was also a commitment to trying to stay in touch with new technology. I am not finding it easy but I am surprised at how much I have been able to do.

Hi Corinne, will await to read your inspiring post on Silver Surfing. I am a dummy on IT. When I was at college, we used punched cards for running programs, then we switched to preparing command statements, then using magnetic cards and self written programs on calculators. At work, I always have a secretary so I didn’t have to type myself. Retirement means I have to type, prepare all powerpoints for part time teaching, using Excel spreadsheets for my personal matters etc. The world has moved on and retirees have to do the same! Regards, Michael

How reassuring to know I am not alone. That’s what’s so good about sharing. We always think that everyone else is doing so much better than we are and then we find that more often than not we are all in the same boat.

Hi foodnotherstuff, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Just wanted to let you know I have nominated you for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award. I hope this will be welcome news for you. If you prefer not to accept the award, I certainly understand, but I hope you will visit the other nominees, and they will visit you, just the same. To see more about the award and accepting this nomination, please visit my post at http://wp.me/p2ekZU-E4. All the best!

Hi The Retiring Sort, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Lovely to see you at soulsnet today. I hope you enjoyed the post. As you could see I had had some technical issues which nearly drove me demented so it seems opportune to make the next post the one that we discussed previously “Silver Surfing”. Thank you for allowing me to share one of your lovely photographs, I shall be spoiled for choice. I will obviously link back and credit you and I hope you will enjoy it.

I have just posted the latest from soulsnet. I do hope you enjoy it as to a large extent you inspired it. I have so enjoyed following your blog, not just your wonderful photography but also your journey post retirement which you share with us.

Hi Corinne, a great post – I thoroughly enjoy reading it and would recommend it to any retirees or readers. I look forward to one day when my hair is all silver rather the dirty grey at the moment! Warm regards, Michael

Hi tiny lessons blog, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Josh here from the BlinkPack blog. I like the concept of your blog, and I am so glad you are spending time sharing your thoughts through writing. Thanks for that, and for visiting the blog. Wishing you all the best! Happy trails.

Hi Debbie, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

That’s fine, Michael, I totally understand. I’ve had several others that I haven’t bothered with before, but this one just caught me in the right frame of mind to follow through! Thanks for letter me know though, and keep on blogging! Best wishes, Debbie

Hello Michael, thank you for the like on my blog https://islandhoppinggreece.wordpress.com/. Reading your blog makes me a bit envious – how wonderful to travel as much as you do and to be able to see photos the way that you do. I really enjoy your style of blogging. Regards, Pia

Hi Pia, I am glad to have discovered your blog which has valuable information and beautiful photos of the Dodecanese islands which have aways been my dream destinations. I look forward to reading more of your posts. Regards, Michael

Hello Michael, I’ve enjoyed following your travels and seeing your journey documented in spectacular images. I wanted to let you know that I’ve nominated you for the Super Sweet Award! Thank you for creating such an interesting, super sweet blog 🙂 Here’s the link: http://twoblackdoggies.wordpress.com/2012/10/13/super-sweet-award/

Hi twoblackdoggies, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Just wanted to let you know I have nominated you for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award. I hope this will be welcome news for you. Some people choose not to participate, others enjoy the opportunity to visit new-to-you blogs and to be visited by new-to-you bloggers. To read more about the award and accepting this nomination, visit my post at http://globetrottersara.wordpress.com/2012/10/13/speeches/ ‎

Hi Sara, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Thank you very much for stopping by my blog and taking the time to like some articles. I started reading some of of your posts and I am hooked ! Your pictures are marvelous ! I loved the ones of XiXi, Hangzhou in winter 🙂

Thank you for reading my blog; I also love perusing some of your articles and was interested in knowing why you call yourself “anonymous”. I understand Mr. “anonymous” did exist and I have a picture of his staute in my post “Budapest – Of Heroes and Castles”. Regards, Michael

I read your article about this mister “anonymous” and I admit I knew nothing about this man, but I may start looking into his work !
I chose to call myself anonymous as I believe that once you start traveling (properly) you are no longer only a people of your native country, but a citizen of the World, a chameleon and you adapt your behavior depending on the country you are in. I believe being anonymous makes you travel better ! But that’s just my point of view.

Yes, we are just world citizens in a world without boundaries (except visa requirements), the absence of any pre-conception / discrimination and travelling with an open mind are perhaps the best way of travelling. Regards, Michael

Thank you for liking my Big Lobster! I can certainly relate to what you have said about yourself. I too am writing in my second language, I am not a professional writer (or a photographer), and I am semi- (i.e., about to be) retired. My Blog is my experiment. I certainly like your photography. I’ll follow your Blog, and hope you will with mine too and drop by again.

Thank you for stopping by and liking a verse on my WordPress site. I plan to look at and perhaps be inspired by your photos. Continued good wishes on your retirement…I have many years to go before I can retire. My WordPress site was also an experiment in recording small daily observations. While we cannot follow every blog…I do plan to put your site on my favorites list so I can find you easily. As I enjoy photography too. Though I haven’t quite figured out all the computer details about posting it.
Cheers from Pennsylvania – The United State of America.

I would be surprised if no one has nominated you yet for the Beautiful Blogger Award. I just did because I really like your site. You write very well and your pictures are so beautiful. Keep on blogging.

Hi bebs1, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

You have great eye for color, light and shadow. There is an elemental balance in your photography that really catches the essence of the subject. Thanks for stopping by The Brass Rag. Come back and see us again soon. Meanwhile, happy writing!

Hi ryan, I have been trying to click “like” on some of your posts but find that it didn’t work. Maybe, you can ask your friend to do the same to see if this is also the case. Many thanks for visitng my blog. Regards, Michael

Hi Otrazhenie, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi author4u, I like Okinawa and have written a couple of posts about it. In particular, I like the aquarium. In my retirment, I like travelling around and taking photos. Thanks very much for the encouraging comment! Michael

Thanks for stopping by my blog Michael. We share some life experiences-no longer working full time, blogging for the first time and having to prepare any slides and such all by ourselves. That is life beyond full-time flat-out work. That is a wonderful life. I am using my blog to describe life and thoughts beyond full time work too. barbstruestories.wordpress.com

Hi Barb, indeed we have many similarities. While working, I always have my own secretary, I didn’t even have to do much typing or preparing slides or PowerPoints. I am now being thrown into a different world but am enjoying every bit of it. Preparation of PowerPoints for part-time teaching is my biggest challenge. I think I could have made my blog a lot more attractive if I have more computer skills.
Best wishes on your retirement and please keep in touch! Michael

Interesting travels and photos! I have found I like following the blogs of people from countries other than my own as it provides a different perspective on travel and other issues. Your English seems quite good to me. I think you write in English better than a lot of Americans!

For the same reasons, I also like following blogs of people from other countries. No doubt, you will find a mistake or two here or there in my text; hope my readers will pardon me. Thanks very much for the perusal and kind comment!

Congratulations on writing a blog in your non-native language. I think it is fabulous way to improve your English (though yours already seems very good). I was only yesterday encouraging a student of ours to do the same thing. All the best for your blog, photography, travels and retirement.

Hi Fae, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Dear Michael, I sincerely respect your choice. Though it was obvious having viewed your blog, nonetheless, I wanted you to know that your blog was one of my choices for the blog award of the year. I appreciate your talent and am always in awe of what you capture with your lens. Fae.

Good morning Sir! Just wanted to stop in and say thank you for your support of The Brass Rag. Your blog looks beautiful and I love seeing your pictures. Looking forward to your comments…meanwhile happy photographing and writing.

Hi The Other Side of Ugly, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi Michael,
Thanks for having a look at my Bucket List. I had a look at your blog and the first thing I’ll say is your pictures are giving me a twinge of homesickness (my parents live n the countryside, I’m studying in London), your photography is really beautiful. Secondly- I think it’s great that you’ve picked up writing- even as a retiree! I absolutely adore it, my blog is the place I find myself, and develop my creativity. Interviews with poets, fashion designers, and making bucket lists etc are helping me find myself- people like you reading them is just a bonus! Keep up the good work, I hope you stop by again soon.
Regards,
Rhiannon

Hi Michael Lai!!! Thank you for stopping by my blog. may you find some words in my blog that is less understood. This is because my english is not good.
I love your travel experience, especially Shirakawa-Go.
By the way, do you have plans to visit Indonesia. if you come to Indonesia you should visit Belitung Island and Raja Ampat
Warm regards from Indonesia

Hi Abdul, I have visited Indonesia and like very much Mount Bromo, Yogatta and Bali. Thank you for introducing Belitung Island and Raja Ampat to me. I will find out more about these lovely places. Thanks for the kind comment! Michael

Hi Bella Remy Photography, thanks so much for the nomination. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

My dad says writing is just organizing your thoughts. You seem to do that quite well, from what I’ve looked at so far your writing is good!
That is so cool that you get to travel so much and take such great pictures. How often do you travel?

Before I retired, my job involves quite a lot of thinking and organizing; maybe those help. However, my English is mainly functional and does not contain a lot of colloquial language, simply because I don’t know them. I am in my early stage of retirement and therefore would travel as much as possible while I am still mobile. I have been to two short trips and one long trip this year. Regards, Michael

Sorry, I disagree w/ one more thing – you said writing is not your best of skills. Your stories are great. And thanks for the quick response/like of my ” ‘Shrooms” and “The Old Fisherman…” OK, I’ll leave you alone now…Have a lovely evening (or day???)

Hi Laurie, I try not to use too many words. Sometimes, I am not sure whether I am gramatically correct or whether I have mis-spelt. I hope my stories are not boring ( I am sure some of them are, if not for the photos!). Best wishes, Michael

Hi Michael!
I have nominated you for the Blog of the year 2012 Award. Thanks for all your great photos & fantastic insights. Also for ‘following’ my blog and all the ‘likes’, it is much appreciated & inspires me to blog more everyday!
Check out my blog for your Award 😉

Hi Milka,
Thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (150 countries) is already my biggest reward.

I read your post on your impressions about my blog. I feel very happy and honored. I know if I write something which is not from my experience or from my heart, usually, the response is not good. I have a phobia for writing – when I was a student, I always hated the “compostion” examinations as I don’t know and could not make up my mind what to write.

With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated!
Regards, Michael

Hi mavimet, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (150 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi miriamtroxler, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (150 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi KZ, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (150 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

So how did it go since last January? 😉
I have to say, your writing is just fine; it is impressive to know that you have not written before, especially that English is not your mother tongue. I wonder if you have an easier time with your first language, or is it harder?
Thanks for liking my recent post.
Lila

Hi Lila, I have never expected that there are so many hits / followers. My training and career were in engineering. As I have not written before, it does not matter whether I was to write in Chinese or English; I have to struggle with both. However, I cannot do Chinese posts as I don’t even know how to type in Chinese! Shortly into blogging, I realized that there are very few readers from HK as they don’t normally read English blog posts. The advantage of writing in English is that there are a lot more audience and I am happy with that! Many thanks for the perusal and comment, Michael

Hi Lila, China has a population of 1.3billion, in addition, there are many migrants in SE Asia ( including Singapore, Malaysia) and the Western world, they speak and / or write in Chinese. Some people are learning at least to speak in Chinese, so they can do business / work in China. The difficulty of learning Chinese is that the writings are more diagram like and not related to the sound, this is the biggest hurdle in Chinese becoming the most prdeominant language. I am sure that there will be more and more people who can read / write Chinese but not sure that it will be the most commonly used language. Happy New Year to you! Michael

At 1.3 billion, it already is the most spoken language, and English is the most dispersed around the world. I think it’s a great idea that people are learning it. It’s Interesting that you speak the top spoken languages in the world. You’re quite lucky!

The way you described Chinese reminds me of hieroglyphics. It sounds fascinating, I love it; you taught me something new about the Chinese language 🙂

Hi Lila, I have started on a Basic Spanish class which involves attending 12 lessons each of 1.5 hours. Back home, I do homework and listen to the CD attached to our textbook. I have now enrolled the Intermediate classes in Spring too. Kind regards, Michael

Excellent. I am at fault with my languages since I have no one to talk to for practice. Language is just a skill we need to repeatedly practice for excellence. I use audio daily.. Seeing others who practice like you motivates me even more to excel (: Thanks!

Hi muZer, thanks so much for the nominations which I understand are important awards. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (150 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nominations. Thank you once again for the nominations which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

No problems at all. I did give that option of accepting or not so totally understand it. This was just my way of showing appreciation for your blog and the amazing photos I get a chance to look at, so thank you for that! 🙂
Regards,

Hi ideflex, thanks so much for the nominations which I understand are important awards. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (156 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nominations. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi Sarah, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Michael

Hi Michael! Thanks for dropping by my blog and liking my posts. I was looking at your photos… so nice! I was also reading your post on joys and jokes of retirement. Got a good chuckle out of the part about getting a watch when time is no longer as important as it was before. Good point.. I never really thought about that. 🙂

Hi Shelley, thanks very much for reading something which I wrote almost a year ago when I first retired. In a sense, time is now all the more important as all time is now in our hands ( and no more in the hand of the employer) and as always, it is running out! Michael

I’m so happy to have a WordPress friend in China! I am a tea reviewer and student of Chinese tea. I love your photographs and your spirit for travel! Congratulations on making your transition to retirement. I will read your blog with delight!

Hi LBcruiseshipblogger, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Regards, Micha

You have a wonderfully interesting blog here and I am impressed with your command of English, as you write clearly and with fairly good grammar too. The subjects of your little articles and the photos are very interesting and I can see why you have so many followers. I am only in first week of blogging, so still have much too learn. Will return often!

My most mmemorable meal was not the one when I was upgraded to first class but some roast goose with noodles served on CX. Unfortunately, I do not have any photos of Shenzhen or Kowloon Tong. Thank you for the kind comment!

Hi Vladimir, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

Michael, I think I know your response since I’ve read the comments in this section. But I nominated you for the Shine On! Award prior to reading these. Just know that you are appreciated and mentioned. Here’s where you can read about your nomination: http://wp.me/p2l4j8-s2
Best wishes for continued success!

Hi Rusha, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

Hi Opalla, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the

I can understand and I respect your decision, Michael. It’s taken me a while to decide whether to dip my feet in these awards blogging too. I consider myself a participant observer to find out about blogging, and hence, I am in. Bog on!

Congratulations! I love your blog and have nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award.
However, there are rules and I won’t be offended if you don’t want to follow them. I just wanted to share your blog with others.
Ana (http://jubileejourney.wordpress.com)

Hi, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

If retired life is as good and globetrotting as yours then it perhaps is something to really look forward to. You are indeed living the dream of traveling and enjoying life after having met its responsibilities. Your photographs are splendid, have character and your narrative reminds me of friends coming back from trips brimming with enthusiasm and stories. Your following is perhaps best reflective of the joy your posts are bringing people. Keep good health, keep travelling and keep blogging.

Hi Potsoup, your comments are exceedingly kind and encouraging. I have worked continously for almost 4 decades without any time for developing my interests; so this is a new lease of life. Regards, Michael

Hello, Michael!
Just wanted to say “Hi” and let you know how much I enjoy your blog. I also appreciate all the “likes” you’ve clicked on my page time after time. I am especially impressed with your photography. I have just finished reading all the comments on your about page to see if anyone asked the question that’s always on my mind…and no one has yet. So here’s the question: “What camera do you use?!” (Of course it’s not always important about the equipment, but moreso about the technique but I’d really like to know what camera you’re using.) All of God’s richest blessings to you and your family thoughout 2013!

Hi Andy, for the last 2 years, I only have 2 digital cameras. A Fuji X100 which has a fixed lens (no zoom) for oversea trips and a cheap small Casio EX-H15 which I may carry around locally ( previously, I only have entry level cameras). I quite like the X100 but now Fuji has produced even better cameras, some with interchangable lens. The more recent ones include the X100S, X200, XE-1, Pro1 etc. I am also looking for a new camera as my X100 cannot zoom (that explain why I do not have a lot of close up shots, apart from macros). Hope this information is of some use to you. Many thanks for your blessings . Best wishes to you and family in 2013! Michael

Hi, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

Thank you for stopping by on my blog, great to see your photos of China, particularly envious of your trip to Zhangjiajie – my dream place to visit! Please continue to enjoy your retirement to its fullest, an inspiration for us uni kids to work hard and achieve the same. Daisy

Hi, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

What a lovely blog, with some amazing photos! And considering English isn’t your first language and you’ve never blogged before, I think your doing a super job. Thanks for taking the time to stope by my Heggles blog and like it. I’ll definitely be looking out for your blog in future.
Best wishes
Heggles

Dear Michael Lai,
I’m much respect and really appreciate for your kindness. Thank you for taking time to stop by my blog, read and then “liking” my posts, although in Indonesian language.
English is not our native language, it’s no problem at all. I am happy that we had “connected” by “retiree” language (I was retired in 2002… 🙂 )
Happy blogging, Michael… All the best to you and your family… !!
– It’s my dream to visit HK… someday –

I admire your proficiency in so many languages. I have just started learning elementary Spanish in my retirement. For me, it is a good mental exercise to keep learning. Happy retirement and hope to hear from you again!

Hi, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael

Hello Michael, Thank you for liking my blog posting (I was surprised as I had just posted it moments ago). I’m glad you did though as it brought me to your blog and although I don’t have time just now as I must get ready for work, I look forward to browsing through your beautiful photos and your well-written prose. I see you are a traveller as well and I think you have been to many places I have not yet so I’m sure I have a lot to learn from you:)
Maureen

Hi Michael, thanks for always liking my posts. I guess we have similarities:
1. English is not my native language.
2. I have never written anything except homework back in schooldays, e-mails, etc…
3. Writing is not my best skill too 🙂

Hi, thanks so much for the nomination which I understand is an important award. I have decided not to pursue or accept any nomination / award during my retirement and for this reason, I have already turned down all similar awards. Knowing that my blog is read in many places of the world (over 160 countries) is already my biggest reward. With regret, I have to decline the nomination. Thank you once again for the nomination which is very much appreciated! Best wishes to you also, Michael